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United Kingdom – Brexit and What It Means for Immigration

United Kingdom – Brexit and What It Means

This GMS Flash Alert reports on a flow-chart that was developed by KPMG LLP in the U.K. to show how different types of people might be affected from an immigration perspective if the EU referendum vote was to leave, rather than stay in, the EU.

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In the run-up to the 23rd June European Union (EU) referendum in the U.K., many EU nationals working in the U.K. are asking their employers what the implications for them might be if the U.K. votes to leave the EU. And to help show what the potential impact of a ‘Brexit’ might be on people’s right to work in the U.K. (should that be the outcome of the 23rd June referendum) KPMG LLP (U.K.) has prepared a flow-chart based on current immigration rules. The flow-chart was developed to show how different types of people might be affected based on the assumption that current immigration rules remain in place for the two-year period of negotiations that would follow if the vote was to leave.

WHY THIS MATTERS

If the U.K. votes to leave the European Union on 23 June 2016, non-U.K. EU residents and business visitors from the EU, the European Economic Area, or Switzerland are likely to be affected.

The flow-chart takes a look at several different fact patterns and scenarios and aims to help assess how Brexit might affect different types of EU nationals working in the United Kingdom.

Should Brexit Happen: What It Means for Foreign Nationals in the U.K.

How long someone’s been in the U.K. makes a difference – more than five years and there may be an option to apply for a card certifying permanent residence which proves a right to live in the U.K. indefinitely. Those with more than six years may be eligible to apply for British citizenship.

Those with less than five years – be they business travellers, students, self-employed people, or entrepreneurs – may need visas or another form of authorisation to remain in the United Kingdom.

KPMG NOTE

All the above is based on the assumption that the current rules remain in place. That’s not guaranteed by any means, so anyone who thinks they will be affected should make sure they obtain advice on their specific situation.

The rules are complicated and may well change depending on exactly what is negotiated in terms of Britain’s exit from the EU if the vote is to leave.

CONTACTS

For additional information or assistance, please contact your local GMS or People Services professional* or one of the following professionals with the KPMG International member firm in the United Kingdom.

Flash Alert is an Global Mobility Services publication of KPMG LLPs Washington National Tax practice.
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